I’m using my Infrex unit all the time (and the TENS unit simultaneously on acupuncture/acupressure sites at the recommendation of my physical therapist). I LOVE IT! It is really being very helpful to me in pain management. That said, my electrodes are wearing out, and I need to obtain more. My 3” Round are completely gone, so I am not able to use that protocol until I obtain more, so I was wondering if I could get a couple of spare sets of the things I use most in addition to the replacement set so that I don’t run out like this. I don’t know how that works with insurance/ Medicare, so please let me know on that front. If I can’t get several at a time, just let me know the frequency I can request to obtain what I need.

Also, as per my physical therapist, I am wearing the TENS 22 hours per day and then using both units sometimes simultaneously, combining approaches. He was very impressed with the unit, and I think you’ll likely have some additional clients from his referrals.
I am finding that the smaller electrodes are lasting 3-4 days because of the continual wear. And the larger electrodes are lasting about a week at most. That said, the Pre-Tens and the Clean-Cote are helping tremendously. They help both the condition of my skin and the life of the electrodes.

A few quick questions:

1) How much moisture are the multi-day electrodes supposed to tolerate? (showers, washing hands, etc.) I was afraid that a shower would ruin them.
2) I got one electrode in my last box that had a snap connection instead of a pin connection. Is that possible to use with my Infrex unit? I didn’t know how to hook it up.
3) Can I mix and match electrodes according to the site? For example, one of my protocols requires between the forefinger and thumb on the extensor surface (which is narrow and is in constant movement), two are on the forearm, and one is near the elbow joint (again a lot of movement and easy to bump). So, could I try a .75”X1.375” rectangle or even a 1.5”X2” rectangle on the thumb area while using the 2” electrodes on the rest?
4) What is the easiest way to determine which leads are used in the 2 Pole application? I can figure it out by trial and error a couple of times, and I can mark them with a silver sharpie or something, but I was wondering if there was a simple way of telling visually already that I just missed.
5) I love the Clean-Cote, but is there a way to remove that residue easily besides scrubbing vigorously in the shower?

If at all possible, I would like to request the following: (assuming that each package has four electrodes). Where possible, I prefer latex-free products, but if must use a latex product to obtain the smallest sizes I will do so. Also, I have sensitive skin, so where there is a reasonable option, please provide a skin-friendly electrode. For example, the

• 3 packages 3” Round Superior Starburst Model 628SB (latex free, with aloe)
• 3 packages Re-Flex Tantone 2”X2” square (I am hoping that these might stay adhered better to sites that are continually moving, such as my hands and wrist areas. If you think something else is better, please advise. If you have something that is slightly smaller like a 1.75”X1.75”, that would be even better.)
• 1 package Multi-Day 2.25” square gel pin connection (unless you can tell me how to use the snap connection)
• 1 lumbosacral 6”X4” butterfly – (Do I use the 2 pole or 4 pole protocol with that? I have been using the infrex on this region very often, so I thought this would be easier to use since I often have to ask for help in applying the electrodes there.)
• 1 package1 Re-Ply 2” round (tan)
• 1 package .75X1.375” rectangle
• 1 package 1.5”X2” rectangle

If you have questions or think I should consider something different, please don’t hesitate to call me at xxx-xxx-xxxxor or email me at __________

Thank you so much,
S S
DOB 9-9-1971

Answer To SS:

Hi SS,

   Thanks for the very nice email back.   I’m glad things are working well and once we get the insurance going think all will be fine.  I want to try to address several of your questions however many better answers are on our web site. 

   First off is if your physical therapist would like us to consign a couple of Infrex units to the dept. for patient trials we will be glad to do so.  Also if he/she does that please let me know as I want to send you some extra supplies as a “thank you” for helping us.   I’m also assuming you will not mind if I post your email to our blog, but I will not reveal your name or other identifying info.   Your letter has some very good, well thought out questions that many people need to know.   Also if your P.T. has any questions  then please have them call me.

  Now to some of your questions:

“ If I can’t get several at a time, just let me know the frequency I can request to obtain what I need. “ ( electrodes) – This to Linda but when possible, after insurance determined, then anytime we can send one shipment with more electrodes etc. then do so.  We can ship once with a year’s supply, but bill them out as allowable each month.  That way Sherri gets more electrodes because we only have one shipping charge rather than 12- 24 with minimal cost of $10 each when you put in handling.

“I am finding that the smaller electrodes are lasting 3-4 days because of the continual wear. “  Do not use any reusuable electrodes for “extended time periods” if you can prevent.  To increase the life of the electrodes it’s best to rotate them and the life is extended.  Example is if you are wearing electrodes 16 hours a day, it’s better to wear one set for 8 hours, then put on other electrodes for 8 hours.  That alone should minimally double the life span of the electrodes. As is seen on one of our electrode videos, store the unused pair in the refrigerator, wipe surface gently with toothbrush, and may occasionally need to dampen with water before putting back on.

1)    How much moisture are the multi-day electrodes supposed to tolerate? (showers, washing hands, etc.)  I was afraid that a shower would ruin them. ( Shower will not ruin as that is a main reason for having that type electrode)

This multiday electrode is generally not a very good electrode and especially so when doing interferential therapy on the Infrex.  Reason  for IF treatment is the surface area for stimulation is very small and therefore the stimulus is concentrated in very small area – not good with interferential.

Other issue with this electrode is not skin friendly at all, occluding skin for long periods so breakdown more likely.  You doing right thing with the skin prep and clean cote so keep that up. 

Gravity is constantly pulling gel etc. down on that electrode as you wear it.  You stand up or sit up and gravity starts trying to get the gel out which means might have “leakage” on bottom edge breaking through the adhesive that is holding electrode on and dry out.  If dries out you will start feeling a “pin stick” because the current is concentrated in only areas where conductive gel/medium is.  This electrode is fine if you are happy and can be very good for small areas like hocu, space between thumb and forefinger in web space.

2)    I got one electrode in my last box that had a snap connection instead of a pin connection.  Is that possible to use with my Infrex unit?  I didn’t know how to hook it up. No was a mistake – Sorry.

3)    Can I mix and match electrodes according to the site?  For example, one of my protocols requires between the forefinger and thumb on the extensor surface (which is narrow and is in constant movement), two are on the forearm, and one is near the elbow joint (again a lot of movement and easy to bump).  So, could I try a .75”X1.375” rectangle or even a 1.5”X2” rectangle on the thumb area while using the 2” electrodes on the rest? 

Yes and that is really a good strategy.  Your therapist seems very knowledgeable and is unique in helping you with more knowledge than most have.  This is very good to cut and shape electrodes for the specic areas.  As an example if you are having pain in the “lower back” in large area then generally use larger electrodes, but if on small joint like wrist then use smaller electrodes.  Mixing and matching is perfect way to go.

Another useful tip is you can always use an “ace” wrap/bandage and secure electrodes like on your forearm by simply binding with the Ace and securing that way if helps.

4)    What is the easiest way to determine which leads are used in the 2 Pole application?  I can figure it out by trial and error a couple of times, and I can mark them with a silver sharpie or something, but I was wondering if there was a simple  way of telling visually already that I just missed. 

Might want to take magic marker as you’ve done  and mark the two cables if that makes it easier.  Now important point is when you have electrodes on and working, yet one electrode area felt more than the other, don’t’ change the electrode location but simply pull out cables at electrode and switch.  One electrode always has more of the positive/negative charge than the other and one always dominants.  If electrode you are feeling most is not one where most pain is, then switch cable and now the electrode over most painful area should be felt more and should help more.  Not sure what going on but most of our cables for Infrex are color coded to start with.  I do know that we do have some that were not color coded but you’ve overcome that with your markings which was smart.

5)    I love the Clean-Cote, but is there  a way to remove that residue easily besides scrubbing vigorously in the shower?   Acetone ( finger nail polish remover ingredient)  which can get at drugstore or we have some removal pads you can wipe with.

Better Posture – Yoga That Works

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Poor posture is very common in today’s world, just take a look around. It is one of many factors that can contribute to back pain. It is not enough to just say, stand up taller. Muscle weakness, tension and imbalance need to be addressed, as well as attention to how you are holding your body.

Lillah has 5 more videos in this series. We collect the best videos on the topic of natural pain relief. Just fill in the form next to the video and we weill start sending them along. You may unsubscribe at any time. We promise not to send useless spam.

In the mean time head on over to Lillah’s blog and check out the great yoga videos, articles and tips. Be sure to say hi in the comment box while you are there.

It is a great stretch for creating space and length in the spine.

Counter Stretch for the Spine

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Wtach the video through and pay careful attention to the instructions for best results. Breathe slow and dep while you are doing this pose. Feel the breathe going all the way down into your pelvis. Let the breathe actually expand the lower abdomen and low back area.

You may only want to do this for a few seconds in the beginning. then work up to a little longer time.  This is one you can do several times a day. whenever you walk past the kitchen sink, or when your back is feeling tight and it needs a good stretch. I like these little exercises than can be done without any special equipment and anytime the spirit moves.

There are a number of videos floating around that just do not teach the right technique.

The man in this video has it right.

Piriformis Stretch For
Back Pain and Sciatica…Done Right!

Keep the Back Flat

This is exactly the way I learned to do this stretch in yoga class.  And I have a tremendous amount of respect for my yoga teacher.

The key here is to keep the back straight. It does not matter how far forward you go, everyone is different. Just go far enough to feel the stretch, but don’t slump over.

Popular Stretch for Back Pain and Sciatica

This is a very popular stretch because it is very good for sciatica, low back pain and helps the hip joints. This is a good one for people who sit a lot, you can do this stretch in just a few seconds, right in your chair. There are also versions of this move that are done lying down.

The reason this move is so effective is that it works on the piriformis muscle. A tight piriformis is responsible for low back issues and sciatica leg pain for a lot of folks. Of course not everybody’s issues stem from piriformis tightness.

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Back Stretch

Video with beginner to advanced version of this well known yoga pose, cobra.

It is great for strengthening and toning back muscles.
It starts with the easiest version for the total newbie and stiffer folk. Then she progresses through more advanced setup.

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Beginner Yoga Positions : Cobra Pose

This pose can be great for some types of back pain problems, but not so good for others. Along with strengthening your back muscles, it is also good for the lower abdominals and the muscles in your pelvis.

People with disc problems seem to benefit the most from cobra pose.

If you have facet joint problems, like example, spondylolisthesis, practice cobra pose cautiously, if at all. Facet joint problems tend to become irritated when the spine is arched. Check with your doctor or physical therapist to see if this pose is okay for your condition.

If you are a beginner, proceed tenderly. There is no reason to strain, regardless of your condition. If it hurts, stop right away. This pose, or any yoga pose, should be pleasant.

Child’s pose is a great follow up pose to do after cobra.

Forward Bend

Stiff or tight back?

You will want to check out this simple forward bend taken from, Nancy Davison’s Back n’ Motion video.

In this first segment she shares the forward bend. It is probably a bit different for how you’ve seen the forward bend before.

This movement is based on Qigong

Qigong is a Chinese meditative practice which uses slow graceful movements to promote the circulation of qi or energy  within the body. It helps to  enhance a person’s overall health.

The movements are designed to loosen up tight and stiff  back muscles. Often it is lack of movements that leads to a chronicly stiff and sore back.

As you do the exercise, move in a slow, easy way. Breathe deeply to promote relaxation. Don’t let your ego get into it, just bend as far as is comfortable. Don’t overdo it.

You can order the complete DVD at www.BacknMotion.net

Sitting Posture

Take a look at how you are sitting in 3-D space.

The 2 most important dimensions are up – down and front to back.

Even if you have a chair that is not so good, it’s possible to make the best of it, if you know what to do.

Of course it’s always best to have a chair the ergonomically designed, and fits your body size well.

This short little video shows the best way to sit in a chair.

A lot of people suffer from back pain, just because they don’t sit properly in their chair. And Lord knows, we spend a lot of time sitting in chairs, most of us anyway.

Proper Height

First thing to do is to get the height of the chair correct. Most office type chairs have an up-down adjustment. There should be s slight downhill angle from the top of your thighs to the knees.

Front to Back

You want to get your butt, all the way to the back of the chair. this helps to prevent slouching. The key is to maintain the proper curve in the lumbar spine.

Use a Cushion

If your chair doesn’t have good lumbar support, try using some type of cushion to provide back support. This will help you to get the proper curve in your lumbar spine. A towel, a small pillow, a cushion, even a folded pillow case might be just right. Experiment to find the right size and thickness for best comfort.

The best solution really is to get a quality chair, that was designed with ergonomics in mind, and fits your body size appropriately.

If you have discovered a sitting solution that works well for you, please tell us about it using the comment box below. And if you tried something that didn’t work so well, we would love to hear about that too!

Belly Turning Pose

Proper posture goes hand in hand with a healthy back and spine. Poor posture can lead to back pain, sciatica and other problems.

This video shows a basic core strengthening exercise called, Belly Turning Pose.

This is part of Lillah’s 6 part series, Improve Your Posture with Yoga.

Start out lying on your back, with arms spread out. Be sure to follow Lillah’s instructions regarding the position of the knees. This pose takes only a couple minutes to do.

Check out some of Lillah’s other back pain videos here.

I am more than happy to have it at my house. It is well worth the space it takes up in my house. Now he just comes over once a week to get a good spine stretch.

As soon as I started doing the inversions on  a regular basis, my back felt better quickly. Check out this inversion therapy video >>>

When the inversion table first showed up at my house, I was doing it maybe once or twice a week. That didn’t make much difference  When I increased the frequency to almost everyday, improvement happened rapidly.  I also was able to increase the amount of time I hung upside down, once I got used to it. At first it was a little awkward and scary, but I got over that after the first few attempts.

The negative pull of gravity on the spine is what makes the difference. This type of spinal decompression therapy has been in existence for a couple thousand years now. In the old days, they would strap someone to a ladder, and a couple of strong men would turn it upside down.

Even a tiny amount of increased separation between the vertebral discs can make a difference.

As always, you would want to check with your doctor, chiropractor or physical therapist before trying this. Inversion therapy is not right for everybody.

McKenzie Exercises

McKenzie exercises offer hope for the sciatica sufferer.

This first video is targeted towards people who have sciatica due to a disc problem, like disc bulge or disc herniation.

Click here to see the second video, focusing on pain due to piriformis syndrome, and how to tell the difference between true sciatica and piriformis  syndrome.  Often the pain  symptoms are very similar, but the cause is different.

Dr George Best shares a demonstration and explanation of McKenzie exercises.

In this video, he covers the concept of centralisation. While doing McKenzie exercises, the pain should move away from the extremety and closer to the spine. This indicates progress is being made in the right direction. In other words, if the pain radiates from the spine all the way down the leg to the foot, you are looking for the pain to leave the foot area and move closer to the spine.

Basic McKenzie Exercise

The basic movement involves lying face down on a firm surface and propping yourself up with the arms. Very similar to the cobra pose in yoga.  This particular McKenzie exercise involves spinal extension. Some of the other McKenzie movements involve spinal flexion. Dr George is simply demonstrating a basic introductory move.

There are several different modifications that can be done, turning to the left or right. All the while paying attention to whether the pain gets closer to the spine and moves away from the furthest point from the back. Since everyone is different, experimentation is needed to figure out which position is best.

The positions are held 1-2 minutes. Never hold a position that makes the pain worse further down the leg.  Dr. George recommends practicing several times per day.

The Benefit of McKenzie

The idea is to squeeze the discs away from the nerves. With repeated times and repetition, the disc may become more stable and stay off the nerve. If you are lucky, over time the pain can work it’s way out of the leg, and eventually out of the back altogether.

This method is not for everybody. Consult with your personal health professional to see if this may be right for you.

Learn more about Dr. George Best here